Barker, 22, has collected three goals, five points and a +3 plus/minus rating in seven games this season with Rockford. The Blackhawks’ first pick, third overall, in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, recorded career highs in games (45), goals (6), assists (12) and points (18) with Chicago last season. The Winnipeg, Manitoba, native has accrued 26 points (seven goals, 19 assists) in 81 career games with the Blackhawks since turning pro in 2005-06.

Barker and the Blackhawks battle the Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center on Monday at 7:00 (CT). The game can be seen on VERSUS, during Chicago’s season debut on national television, and heard on News/Talk 720 WGN Radio, the flagship station for Blackhawks hockey.